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Depth to Plant
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Spacing Between Plants |
Days to Germinate (Sprout)
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Germination
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Best Season to Plant_________ |
Sun
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Soil
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Good Plant Companions |
Days to Maturity
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| 1/2" Deep | 12-18" Apart | 14-21 Days | 68° F | Spring or Autumn | Full Sun | pH 5.5-6.8 | Throughout the garden | 65 |
Getting Started with Yarrow
Yarrow is a hardy perennial herb that thrives in most growing conditions, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. This resilient plant produces delicate, feathery foliage and vibrant flower clusters in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white. Beyond its ornamental appeal, yarrow is prized for its culinary and medicinal properties.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Yarrow performs best in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant is highly adaptable to soil types but prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Unlike many herbs, yarrow tolerates poor soil quality and actually thrives in lean conditions. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with sand or compost to improve drainage.
This herb is remarkably drought-tolerant once established, so it doesn't demand frequent watering. Water newly planted yarrow regularly for the first few weeks, then reduce watering as the plant develops a strong root system. During the growing season, water only when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Planting Your Yarrow
You can start yarrow from seeds, seedlings, or root divisions. If planting from seed, start indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date, or direct sow after the frost danger has passed. Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Yarrow establishes quickly and will fill in nicely over its first season.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, yarrow requires minimal maintenance. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season. In late fall, cut back the plant to about 2 inches above the soil level to prepare it for winter dormancy.
Yarrow rarely suffers from serious pests or diseases when grown in proper conditions. Overwatering is the primary threat, so err on the side of dryness. The plant naturally resists most common garden pests and doesn't require chemical treatments.
Harvesting and Using Your Yarrow
Harvest yarrow flowers and leaves in mid to late summer when blooms are fully open. Cut stems in the morning after dew dries. Use fresh flowers for tea, dried arrangements, or medicinal preparations. The dried herb stores well in a cool, dark place and maintains its potency for several months.
With its low maintenance requirements and abundant harvest, yarrow is a rewarding herb that rewards even the most casual gardener with beauty and utility season after season.
